CHARGERS: Report card

Philip who? Billy Volek was Sunday's star under center, as he
directed a game-winning drive capped by a touch pass to a wide-open
Mike Tolbert. Volek did throw an interception, but considering how
much rust he knocked off, he deserves a pass. Rivers produced 10
points in his two drives.

Running backs: C-

The Chargers couldn't crack 50 yards or 3 yards per carry for
the game. It's hard to be consistent in the running game with the
offensive line being so heavily rotated. LaDainian Tomlinson was in
for about as long as one of his pizza commercials; Darren Sproles
got two carries for 18 yards. The Mike and Mike Show ---- Bennett
and Tolbert ---– made their biggest contributions in the passing
game.

Receivers: B

There was a drop or two, but nothing that marred a pretty solid
day by the Bolts using their mitts. Tolbert had the go-ahead TD
catch, but Malcom Floyd (nine catches for 140 yards) and Buster
Davis (6-52) who really shined. Davis, in particular, showed a
toughness and can-do spirit that some in the organization didn't
know he possessed.

Offensive line: C

The run blocking was average, but it was like a Pop Warner game
up front (i.e., everyone plays). The pass protection was solid, and
nothing is more important than that on the eve of the playoffs.
Brandyn Dombrowski continued to shine, playing both tackle
spots.

Defensive line: B

It's amazing how much better the line is, and it's even more
eye-popping with the number of players used. The Redskins ran for
only 64 yards, and the line gets some of the credit. Vaughn Martin
continued to get his body in the right spots, and newcomer Antonio
Garay led the unit with three tackles.

Linebackers: B

Brandon Siler had a tackle for a loss, and Marques Harris got a
sack, which brought with it his backward flip. Larry English saw
extended playing time and responded with seven tackles and a
quarterback hit. Kevin Burnett, still working his way back from a
neck injury, had five tackles.

Secondary: C

What we learned is that Dante Hughes needs to improve his
tackling. Antoine Cason, the former nickel back, played corner and
led the team with 12 tackles, one for a loss. Cason, who saved a
touchdown with a tackle, also had half of the team's passes
defensed. Some sure tackling by Antonio Cromartie early was a
pleasant surprise.

Special teams: B

Nate Kaeding connected on three field goals, as he enters the
playoffs on another hot streak. Kassim Osgood was all over the
field covering kicks and punts, and should be commended. Coverage
units were spot on; not much to talk about in the return game.

Coaching: A

For coach Norv Turner, sprinkling in backups and still getting a
win is a combination he will embrace. Turner will soon sign a
contract extension, and he certainly didn't hurt his bargaining
power on Sunday. Defensive coordinator Ron Rivera employed an
effective game plan and now will plan on interviewing for head
coaching jobs.